For listeners interested in a revised look at Western civilization.
In his first audiobook, McDonald, a geographer with an impressive academic background, looks at the idea of progress and finds it not just wanting but dangerous. The work could be summarized by the following phrase: Everything you know is wrong. Listeners may find the production a bit wearisome as it proceeds. McDonald narrates with a somewhat dispassionate expression that borders on monotonous at times, but his pronunciation and pacing are easy to understand and to follow.
For listeners interested in a revised look at Western civilization.Pub Date: Dec. 2, 2025
Duration: 12 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9781250415837
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Review Posted Online: March 17, 2026
Buckley offers a reasonable proposal for a national service program without jail or criminal penalties. Narrator Lawrence reads with a slow and careful announcer's voice; one wishes Buckley were reading this one himself. Books on Tape does its usual quality job with formatting, packaging and tape-turning instructions. The reader repeats the last sentence at such times, so you're sure you haven't missed anything. Popular nonfiction collections will appreciate Gratitude, and the topic is likely to prove timely in the years ahead.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 5 hrs
Publisher: Books on Tape
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Kozol’s shocking exposé of inequities in the funding of our public schools contrasts white suburban schools with those serving black and Hispanic populations. Interviews with students, teachers, and school administrators add eloquent testimony to Kozol’s disturbing presentation of facts. Narration by Jack Winston is clear and brisk, but the pace is unrelenting, with little pause for transition between scenes or chapters. Winston’s cool, detached voice contrasts with Kozol’s impasssioned and outraged message. The sheer repetition and magnitude of Kozol’s damning evidence is numbing; the narration gives no relief. Powerful medicine, most easily taken in small doses. Music signalling tape changes is jarringly inappropriate.
Pub Date: N/A
Duration: 8 hrs
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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